Efforts to preserve as much of the historic sandstone facade at the old Kaufhof structure as feasible
The historical sandstone facade of the former Karstadt building in Offenbach is set to become a celebrated centrepiece in the renovation of Station Mitte, a learning, culture, and meeting centre scheduled for completion in 2026.
Recent discoveries have revealed a well-preserved part of the original sandstone facade, dating back to 1907 and 1930, hidden beneath aluminium panels applied by the Karstadt AG in the 1960s. The condition of the sandstone is such that it suggests that the other axes still under the metal are also in good condition.
To ensure the preservation and integration of this historical architecture, a series of strategic steps have been proposed:
- Assessment and documentation: A detailed structural and historical assessment will be conducted to understand the facade's condition, historical features, and preservation needs.
- Collaboration with heritage experts: Heritage conservation specialists will be engaged to create a restoration plan that complies with preservation standards while allowing for modern integration.
- Design integration: The restored facade will be incorporated as a focal architectural element within the Station Mitte renovation.
- Visibility enhancements: The facade will remain visible from key pedestrian routes and transit access points, with obstructive modern elements potentially being removed or redesigned.
- Public engagement and interpretation: Interpretive displays or digital installations will be included near the facade to educate the public on its historical significance.
- Funding and phasing: Dedicated funding for the facade restoration will be secured within the broader renovation budget, with the restoration planned to coincide with relevant phases of the Station Mitte project.
These measures aim to bridge Offenbach's heritage with its modern urban development, making the restored sandstone facade a cherished element of the Station Mitte renovation.
Paul-Gerhard Weiß, building commissioner and deputy chairman of the supervisory board of Station Mitte GmbH, has stated that they will strive for the preservation and integration of the remaining facade. Martin Wilhelm, city treasurer and chairman of the supervisory board of Station Mitte GmbH, has also emphasised the desire of many citizens for the facade to be made visible again.
The dialogue procedure for the tendering of a general contractor for the renovation of Station Mitte is currently underway. The magistrate shares this wish, but it must be checked whether and how the costs for a possible restoration can be integrated into the existing renovation plan due to limited financial resources for the transformation of Station Mitte.
Dr. Anette Ritter-Hoell, a renowned sandstone expert, has inspected the condition of the historical building substance. Her report confirms that the remaining sandstone facade is in good condition, with minimal weathering. The sandstone used in the original facade has a high strength, making restoration easier.
As the renovation plans are further developed, the community eagerly awaits the unveiling of this hidden treasure, a testament to Offenbach's rich architectural history.
The restored sandstone facade, boasting a rich history dating back to 1907 and 1930, will seamlessly blend with the home-and-garden aesthetic of the Station Mitte renovation, presenting an other lifestyle perspective within the learning, culture, and meeting centre.
By expertly restoring the facade and ensuring its visibility from key pedestrian routes, the project will honor Offenbach's past while embodying a celebrated centrepiece for the modern, urban home-and-garden lifestyle scene.
